Your wedding is a week away. Here, beauty experts chime in on down-to-the-wire ways to look and feel your best on the big day.
By: Brittany Robins
DAY 7
Up your exercise routine. We suggest using The Metamorphosis DVD by Tracy Anderson each day in the final week for last-minute toning. Anderson explains, “This one hour-a-day workout will not only help you achieve your dream body, but will also alleviate pre-wedding jitters and provide you with energy in that final stretch.”
What not to do: Cut or color your hair. Paul Labrecque, owner of Paul Labrecque Salon & Spa in New York City, recommends a trim two weeks before the wedding and a color touch-up ten days before the big day. “Don’t make drastic changes, since your hair trial was conducted with the current length and texture of your tresses,” says Labrecque.
DAY 6
Treat yourself to a facial. Tony Silla, co-owner and head esthetician at Face Place in Los Angeles says, “six days before the wedding is a good time to have a full facial.” If your skin is sensitive, be wary of extractions. “A facial will guarantee a healthy, vibrant complexion in time for your wedding.” He also recommends staying out of the sun as much as possible and wearing SPF 25 sunscreen to protect your skin.
What not to do: Chemical peels, laser treatments and injections — anything invasive that might not heal in time for your big day. Better to be safe than sorry, brides-to-be!
DAY 5
Begin a daily exfoliation regimen. St. Ives Naturally Clear Green Tea Body Scrub contains exfoliants that not only slough off dead skin cells and clear blemishes, but also soothe the skin — preventing irritation.
Condition your mane with an at-home hair mask. We recommend Orofluido Hair Mask which penetrates the hair’s damaged cuticle and restores vitality and luster to your locks.
Avoid excessive alcohol and salt. Both are culprits that cause major water retention. Ban the bloat by opting for fresh herbs to flavor foods rather than table salt. Also, cut back on refined sugars and caffeine—both increase puffiness — try caffeine-free herbal tea instead.
DAY 4
Amp up your vitamins. Dr. Joe Schwarcz, Science Professor at McGill University says, “Individuals under stress naturally have lower levels of B vitamins, which are vital for cognitive function. Both vitamins B and C slow down the look of aging and are important antioxidants that fight off illness — all valuable components that ensure your big day goes off without a hitch.” Tweaking your vitamin dosage will help calm your nerves, boost your immune system and initiate restful slumbers.
Schedule your eyebrow and bikini wax. Any redness or irritation will clear up in time for your nuptials. Make sure your esthetician keeps the shape and natural arch of your eyebrows —y ou’ll want to look like yourself when your hubby-to-be looks into those eyes.
DAY 3
Plan a relaxing and romantic activity with your fiancé. An intimate couple’s massage will help soothe any muscular tension built up from the stressful wedding-planning process.
If you want a golden glow, indulge in a spray tan. Sunless tans are the healthiest way to get that rich bronzed glow without compromising the well-being of your skin. Getting spray tanned two days prior to your wedding will allow for enough drying time so the color won’t stain your dress. SunFX Spray-on Tanning is an organic air-brush solution that leaves no streaks or orange hue. Check your local tanning outlets as it is offered at select salons worldwide.
DAY 2
Get your final manicure and pedicure. New York-based celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann says, “Getting a manicure and pedicure the day before the wedding will prevent the possibility of chipping, while also allowing for adequate drying time.” The newest trend, gel nail polish, remains intact for two weeks, so it can stay put all the way through the honeymoon! Try OPI GelColor, which has a range of over 30 colors to choose from.
Keep calm and carry on. Take a warm bath with Shea Terra Organics Calming Shea Bath Beads, which contains ingredients that have stress-reducing and anti-inflammatory properties. Finish off the night by going to bed early to get that last-minute beauty rest!
DAY 1
Start smart with a light, healthy breakfast. Incorporate whole grains, protein and fruit to provide sufficient energy throughout the day — you’ll certainly need it!
Allow for at least three hours to get ready; this way you will avoid being stressed and pressed for time — you’ll want to enjoy every moment.
Spritz on your signature scent for the finishing touch. We love Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh scent which combines pink grapefruit and raspberry with a floral base note to create a sweet and feminine flair, ensuring that you’re bridal beautiful on the big day.
